Category: The Nation – Nigeria

Stakeholders drawn from government agencies, faith-based organisations, civil society and child welfare institutions have reaffirmed their commitment to promote family integration and holistic support for vulnerable children during a two-day Collaborate+ Lagos 2025 Forum at the Bimbo Odukoya Foundation Centre, Ilupeju.

The conference, themed: ‘Promoting Family Integration and Holistic Support for Every Child,’ was convened by the Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO) in collaboration with the Association of Orphanages and Homes Operators in Nigeria (ASHON), Lagos State Chapter.

It served as a rallying platform for dialogue and partnership on how to address family separation, child neglect, and systemic challenges facing caregivers in Lagos State.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Lagos State Government, Mrs. Adenike Obilana, a director at the Ministry of Youth and Social Development (MYSD), reaffirmed the state’s commitment to inclusive welfare under its T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.

Mrs. Obilana, who represented the Commissioner, Mr. Bolaji Dunde, noted that the government recognised the family as the cornerstone of society and stressed that sustainable child protection required collective responsibility.

‘Vulnerable children need more than compassion – they need collective action, intentional policy, and unwavering support,’ she stated.

A major highlight of the event was the panel session on tackling the roots of family separation, featuring speakers from diverse professional backgrounds.

Executive Director of the Office of Life Care, Women and Children Empowerment Initiative, Pastor Kingsley Kalu, lamented that poverty, unemployment and domestic strife remain leading causes of family breakdown in Nigeria. He urged faith-based institutions to go beyond charity and offer structured family counselling, skill acquisition and social support to restore dignity and stability to homes.

Similarly, Director of Christian Education at the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Reverend Dr. (Mrs.) Foluke Bosede Ola, focused on the wellbeing of caregivers, stressing that mental exhaustion and emotional burnout can lead to reduced quality of care. According to her, caregivers need more institutional support and recognition.

‘A burnt-out caregiver cannot nurture children effectively. Mental balance, rest, and counselling are essential for quality child care,’ she said.

Executive Director of Denny School Welfare Hub, Mrs. Abosede Mary Otukpe, emphasised the role of parenting education in family resilience. She explained that intentional parenting, effective communication, and empathy are vital in preventing neglect and abuse.

Her remarks drew attention to the growing need for capacity-building workshops for both parents and caregivers.

On the government’s part, Mr. Alufa Wellington Olalekan, representing the MYSD, revealed that Lagos currently operates 23 Family Social Services Centres across the state. These centres, he said, offer counselling, conflict mediation and intervention in domestic crises. Early intervention, he added, often prevents permanent family separation and institutionalisation of children.

The legal dimension was explored by Barrister Adora Ochulali of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, who advocated stronger access to justice for vulnerable families. She noted that legal protection is crucial for fair treatment in cases of custody, domestic violence and child rights violations. Her call for better synergy between social workers, law enforcement, and courts received strong applause from participants.

Adding a community perspective, Mrs. Bridget Taremotimi of Women at risk International Foundation (WRIES) and Mrs. Bamiduro Adeola Atinuke of CPM Ojoju LCDA both emphasised collaboration among community leaders, NGOs, and faith groups. They highlighted how community-based awareness programmes can help identify.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has vowed to put an end to sabotage and punish those stealing streetlights in the nation’s capital.

Wike said this on Thursday when he officially flagged off Lot 1 and 2 of the transformative ‘Light Up Abuja’ project, which involves the provision of integrated (hybrid) solar lighting across Abuja’s districts and expressways.

He disclosed that the project was designed to provide uninterrupted light across the various districts and expressways, adding that the initiative was an essential step towards improving security and the city’s aesthetic appeal.

The FCT Minister emphasised the importance of a well-lit Abuja, which he said was crucial for national pride and development, especially as the city approaches its 50th anniversary in February next year.

He expressed the belief that the Light Up Abuja project will dramatically transform the city within the next seven months and improve security.

According to him: ‘In the next seven months, it will be a different thing. Anybody coming to Abuja, not only will you see good roads, you will see the entire place being lit up’.

Wike, who also disclosed that the hybrid solar system comes with surveillance features, said it will enable the immediate identification of anyone attempting to vandalize or steal the facilities.

He said: ‘Criminals will run away because when there is light everywhere, by the time they come to steal our facilities, at least you know that people will see you’.

Recalling the challenges faced in tackling persistent darkness and sabotage in the FCT, the minister revealed that upon assumption of office, he met a situation where nearly 80 percent of the FCT was plunged into darkness at night, directly contributing to a rise in insecurity.

He also detailed the costly and ineffective cycle of maintenance, noting that previous maintenance contracts were often awarded to ‘political contractors,’ resulting in payments for maintenance without visible results-a practice he described as a ‘nightmare’.

To solve the recurring problems of darkness and infrastructure sabotage, Wike said the FCT Administration took a decisive action during an investment-driven trip with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Beijing in 2024, where key agreements were signed with two reputable international firms – Chinese Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC) and Chinese Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) to provide water to the satellite towns, which is currently ongoing, and to light up Abuja.

Furthermore, the Minister stated that the contracts stipulate that the companies were responsible for the full maintenance of the streetlights for four to five years, thereby eliminating the previous costly and ineffective system of perpetual maintenance.

Acknowledging the anticipated backlash from those who benefited from the old corrupt system, the Minister said the FCT Administration expects attacks from three main groups – the previous contractors who will now lose their lucrative maintenance contracts, criminal saboteurs who thrived in darkness to steal cables, and corrupt FCTA officials involved in generating maintenance files.

However, Wike said he is undeterred by any sentiments or political campaigns, emphasizing his commitment to the nation’s interest.

‘We have made a decision. This work must be done, and I will do it with the support of Mr. President, and that is what is key’, he asserted.

The Minister of State, FCT, Mariya Mahmoud, described the light up Abuja project as more than just poles and solar panels, but about bringing light where there was darkness, safety where there were fears, and hope where there were doubts, expressing optimism that the initiative will ensure that Abuja continues to shine at night.

Mahmoud extended profound appreciation to President Tinubu and the FCT Minister for their visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the provision of vital infrastructure in the FCT.

Providing an overview of the Light up Abuja project, the Acting Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda stated that the contract was awarded in two lots to Messrs CCECC and CGC Nigeria Limited, adding that they were expected to complete the work within six months.

He said Lot 1 covers Maitama, Central Area, Wuse, and Asokoro districts, as well as the Airport Expressway, while Lot 2 covers Katampe, Katampe Extension, Jabi, Garki, Gudu, and Mabushi districts.

Dauda added that the scope of work includes supply and installation and Retro fitting of Integrated Hybrid Solar Street lighting, fittings of 300 watts solar powered lights with luminous blocks ranging from 7,500 lumens to 17,500 lumens along streets and expressways with other necessary accessories, installation of galvanized street light posts at locations where they need replacement or have been vandalized and installation of surveillance facilities for the street lights.

He added that the integrated hybrid solar street lighting system, when completed, will illuminate the city and help guard against theft and vandalism, and also provide other benefits like improved security of lives and properties, improved aesthetics and ambience in the streets at night, reduction of electricity bills, maintenance costs, and technical losses.

Managing Directors of CCECC and CGC Nigeria Ltd, Guan Shuai and Zhang Xiang, respectively, thanked President Tinubu and the FCT Minister for entrusting their companies with the key responsibility and pledged to deploy their best resources to deliver a world-class project that will make Abuja shine brighter and set a benchmark for sustainable urban development.

Edo State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Agun Gbenga, has slumped and died.

Gbenga slumped at the Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre, Benin City, where he was to receive an award.

Witnesses at the event said he slumped a few minutes after delivering his goodwill message at the event organised by the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA).

He was rushed to the Military Base Hospital, Benin, where he was confirmed dead on arrival.

A senior official of the NSCDC, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed the development.

‘Our oga was in the office this morning. It was at the office that he dressed up to attend the event.

‘He didn’t show any sign of ill-health. He slumped and was declared dead on arrival at the hospital.’

Chairman of the All Progressives Congress United Kingdom (APC UK) and the APC Diaspora Chairmen Council (APC CDC), Hon. Tunde Doherty, has called on Nigerians to uphold the legacies of the nation’s founding fathers and sustain the spirit of resilience that has defined the country since independence.

In a statement he personally signed to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, Doherty described the milestone as more than a historical landmark, stressing that it symbolises the unity, diversity, and hope of the Nigerian people.

‘Sixty-five years of Nigeria’s independence is not merely a historical milestone; it is a testament to our resilience, our unity in diversity, and our unwavering hope for a better tomorrow,’ he said.

Doherty further assured that the diaspora chapter of the ruling party under his leadership remains committed to promoting inclusive governance, encouraging civic engagement, and strengthening strategic collaboration between Nigeria and its citizens abroad.

‘The diaspora remains a vital force in shaping Nigeria’s future.

‘We must continue to build bridges across borders, advocate for transparency, and empower our communities to contribute meaningfully to national development,’ he said.

Doherty called on all Nigerians to reflect on the values of freedom, justice, and progress, and to recommit themselves to the collective pursuit of a prosperous and united nation.

Council workers in Osun State have announced they will return to work on Monday, October 6, 2025, ending a strike that began in February following a protracted dispute over the control of local government secretariats.

The strike was triggered after elected chairmen from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) both laid claim to the councils following a Court of Appeal verdict, prompting the Federal Government to withhold allocations to the LGAs.

However, the offices of the Minister of Finance, Attorney-General of the Federation, Accountant General, and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) later recognised the APC reinstated chairmen and directed them to open accounts for all 30 LGAs, leading to the release of funds.

Speaking in Osogbo on Thursday, the Association of Concerned Local Government Workers of Osun State, led by Comrade Adedayo Adekunle, declared readiness to resume duties, describing the seven-month strike action declared by the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) as needless.

Adekunle lamented that the prolonged industrial action had led to the death of some of their colleagues, stressing that resumption was necessary to restore normalcy to council operations across the state.

He said, ‘This is the best time for autonomy, but some disgruntled elements under the disguise of comrades are working against it. The excuse of insecurity given for strike action is not tenable; we are landlords of the council Secretariat. The ongoing legal actions should not make us abscond from our duty posts and yet receive a salary from the state government. The strike action is unwarranted.’

Adekunle hinted that workers who failed to resume duty risk degradation and job loss as the reinstated chairmen of APC may conduct staff auditing after their resumption on Monday to ascertain the actual workers before paying them salary forthwith.

He urged the reinstated chairmen to prioritise the welfare of council workers, warning that the union will continue to fight for the rights of its members at any time and time of resumption.

Meanwhile, NULGE, through its State Publicity Secretary, David Owoeye, in a statement, kicked against the planned resumption of workers, saying, ‘We have not ordered any worker to resume duty; our safety is paramount.’

Media personality and relationship expert Blessing CEO has advised reality star Phyna to pursue legal action following the tragic death of her sister in a truck accident allegedly involving the Dangote Group.

Blessing urged Phyna to hire a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) to strengthen her case, stressing that seeking justice through legal channels would be more effective than relying solely on social media campaigns.

Phyna has been vocal online about her sister’s death, drawing sympathy from fans and the public. However, Blessing CEO maintained that only the courts can ensure accountability and secure proper compensation for the loss.

‘Phyna, I keep seeing you all over my timeline. By now, I expected you to have gotten a SAN. You need to put yourself together so people can take you seriously. This case is already looking like a joke. There are better ways you can go about this issue. You don’t use gra-gra to get compensation. This is the time to get a good lawyer for you’, she said in part.

Fintech startup, Cardri, has launched its intra-Africa payment solution.

As intra-African trade suffers from delays, high fees, and complexity of navigating 42 currencies, Cardri’s platform promises a seamless solution – allowing users to fund their wallets in local currency (naira) and make instant cross-border payments to African countries.

Beyond Africa, the app supports global payouts to 92 countries, instant domicilliary funding and even Alipay and Chinese account funding – opening up frontiers for businesses and individuals seeking to operate internationally.

But the most revolutionary feature is Cardri’s AI-powered risk management tool to help users hedge against currency fluctuations, inflation shocks and others. While still in development, this tool is critical for small businesses and importers navigating unpredictable market conditions.

According to founders, the goal is to make Cardri Africa’s Financial Super App, combining payments, reach and smart risk management in a single ecosystem.

With African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA) gaining momentum, this could bridge the financial divide holding back intra-African commerce to create a frictionless economy where money moves easily as ideas and businesses are able to protect themselves from market volatilities all from a single app for the first time

Israel’s continued participation in international football has to be dealt with first and foremost by European governing body UEFA, FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani has said.

UEFA was expected to hold an emergency vote this week on whether to suspend Israel from European competition over the war in Gaza.

However, British media reported that the continental body has decided to hold off on a proposed vote following the announcement of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan to end the war in the region.

Israel are third in Group I of the qualifying stage for next year’s World Cup in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Amnesty International on Wednesday sent a letter to FIFA and UEFA calling on them to suspend the Israel Football Association.

However, Montagliani, President of the North and Central America and Caribbean soccer federation CONCACAF, said it was down to UEFA to rule on Israel’s participation.

‘First and foremost, it (Israel) is a member of UEFA, no different than I have to deal with a member of my region for whatever reason. They have to deal with that,’ Montagliani told reporters at the Leaders sports business conference.

‘And I respect not only their process but whatever decision they make.’

Montagliani will attend the FIFA Council meeting in Zurich today where the issue of Israel’s participation is not on the agenda nor is the proposal from South American federation CONMEBOL to expand the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams.

Next year’s World Cup from June 11-July 18 will be the biggest ever having already been expanded to 48 teams from 32.

Montagliani insisted that no games would be moved from planned venues despite Trump saying last month that he would consider relocating matches from cities he did not deem safe.

‘If I have to react every time a politician makes a statement, whether it’s a president or senator or congressman . then I wouldn’t be doing my job, because I’d be focusing on what these guys say,’ the Canadian added.

‘So the reality is, we’re focused on the 16 venues and making sure that they’re ready to go .’

However, Montagliani said the kick-off times in certain venues could be changed after the experience of the Club World Cup hosted in the U.S. earlier this year, where some matches took place in extreme heat and humidity.

‘It’s always an issue in our region, because summers are hot . even in Canada they’re hot, not just the U.S., and so it’s important to learn those things,’ he added.

The full match schedule will be announced after the World Cup draw on December 5 in Washington D.C.

Montagliani said there were daily discussions with global broadcasters and time differences would be taken into account.

Super Falcons forward Gift Monday has expressed her emotions after missing out on Nigeria’s campaign for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), despite putting up a historic performance in the United States.

Speaking after her record-breaking display in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the striker described playing for the Super Falcons as ‘a very big honour’ and reaffirmed her desire to return to the national team setup.

‘I am always more than happy to represent the green white green. I’m doing what I can to get my feet together and hopefully get called up. I am so, so glad to give Nigeria this precious gift,’ she said.

While her current exploits have grabbed global attention, Monday revealed her biggest motivation remains wearing the Nigerian jersey again. Having missed out on the recent WAFCON 24 campaign in Morocco ,she believes her form could soon open the door for another Super Falcons call-up ahead of the WAFCON qualifiers second round double header against Benin Republic next month

23-year-old Monday’s last involvement with the Super Falcons was in October 2024, when the Super Falcons faced Algeria in a two-legged friendly.

Team Brady leads by just a single point over Team Rafa at the top of the Championship standings as the UIM E1 World Championship presented by PIF heads to Lagos this weekend for its historic African debut, setting up a thrilling penultimate round in the battle to crown the 2025 ‘Champions of the Water’.

The E1 Lagos GP presented by FirstBank takes place from 4 to 5 October, with only 21 points covering the top four teams and everything to play for ahead of the season finale in Miami.

Team Brady sits atop the standings with 135 points, closely pursued by Team Rafa on 134, Team Aoki on 125, and Team Blue Rising on 114, making the rivalry at the top fiercer than ever.

Following dramatic showdowns in Monaco and a high-speed crash between Team Rafa and Team Brazil that cut qualifying short, the Championship fight has reached boiling point.

African football legend Didier Drogba, co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa along with Gabrielle Lemaire, is expected to attend the race weekend – adding star power to a pivotal moment in both the championship and E1’s global expansion.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Lagos Lagoon, the event showcases the thrills of electric racing to West Africa while highlighting the region’s blue economy potential.

The Championship’s revolutionary E1 RaceBirds – all-electric powerboats that fly above the water at racing speeds – will provide spectacular racing action for the thousands of expected spectators.

The race will further help position Lagos as a growing hub for international sporting events while demonstrating the city’s commitment to green innovation for regional waterways.

Rodi Basso, founder and Chief Executive Officer of E1, said: ‘Bringing E1 to Africa represents a pivotal moment in our mission to grow electric racing globally. Having Didier Drogba and Gabrielle Lemaire – who perfectly embody E1’s values – at the heart of this journey makes it even more meaningful.’